Microbiology and Immunology

Overview

We believe 21st century trainees need familiarity with both host and pathogen, and thus at least introductory immunology and graduate-level microbiology coursework will be required of all master's program students. 

Other program course requirements will be more flexible, allowing those with academic deficiencies to focus on coursework to enhance their credentials for professional school admission, and enabling those who aspire to do research to gain extensive experience in the University of Michigan and/or industrial laboratory settings. 

To this end, there are several possible options available to students interested in pursuing a Master's degree.

Non Research Option

Recognizing that some students who enroll in the Microbiology and Immunology Master's Degree program may not be preparing for careers in research, or may decide to pursue other directions after an initial term of research, students can complete the degree with 28 credits whether or not research is included, provided other degree requirements are satisfied. 

Students intending to pursue the non-research master's degree in Microbiology and Immunology should design a plan of study in consultation with the Master's Advisor, and this plan will be kept in the student's departmental file. Completing their approved personalized plan of study will be a requirement for each student who wishes to receive the Master's degree.

Research Option

Performing laboratory research is not a requirement of the Master's of Science in Microbiology and Immunology . However, in keeping with departmental strength in research and the value of research experience for students, all Master's students interested in research are encouraged to pursue it. The program will facilitate research opportunities for all enrolled in the Master's Degree program. 

Research Track Master's students will not perform research rotations, but will enter mutually agreed-upon relationships with Microbiology and Immunology faculty research mentors prior to enrolling in research credit for the terms in which research will be performed. 

The student and research mentor will make arrangements for requisite safety coursework and will discuss expectations (generally 5-6 hours/week per research credit) prior to the start of research. In addition to providing a letter grade, the faculty member will provide a written evaluation for the student's departmental file, to be discussed and signed by the student, at the end of each term.

Thesis Option

Matriculated students who have maintained an overall B+ average and intend to pursue at least two terms of laboratory research can opt to write a research-based thesis as part of their master's degree. They will defend their thesis to their thesis advisor and two additional committee members. 

Upon successful defense of the thesis, the Microbiology & Immunology program will then ensure that the student's degree is awarded with a designation indicating that they defended a thesis.